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The ongoing robbery of and violent attacks on Table Mountain hikers warrants decisive action. This month, two stabbing incidents were reported within a single week. Late yesterday afternoon (13 July), another man was robbed and stabbed at Deer Park, near the Platteklip Wash House on the lower slopes of Table Mountain. This follows closely on […]
The post Freedom Front Plus condemns violent attacks on Table Mountain appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
The latest checklist of Table Mountain flora shows that Cape Town is still a global hotspot for threatened flowering plants.
Plan to relocate Masiphumelele families sparks concerns among residents of smallholdings
While the fire in April destroyed many invasive plants, the Sugarbird Project is working to remove other “relentless” invasives
But MPs are not convinced it is enough
But a separate investigation by the Blue Scorpions appears to have stalled
For low-income communities living on the borders of game reserves, the benefits of trophy hunting are few. There are 10 better ways that they could earn a living.
Phalaborwa residents lay criminal charges against local municipalities to try to end their sewerage problems
Rhino poaching continues to decrease
South Africa continues to see a downward trend in rhino poaching, with the 2024 statistics showing that 499 rhinos were poached in 2023, compared to 420 last year -- a decrease of 79.
“As we intensify the fight against wildlife poaching, it is encouraging to see that the work of the rangers, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and other key role players is steadily gaining momentum,” the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said on Thursday.
From January to December 2024, 420 rhinos were poached in South Africa, with 320 being killed on State properties and 100 on privately owned parks, reserves or farms.
“The hardest hit province continues to be KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), which lost 232 rhinos. However, this is a notable decline from the 325 that were lost in 2023.
“The significant reduction can largely be attributed to the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Dehorning Programme, which was implemented in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park from April to October 2024.
“The World Wide Fund for Nature-funded programme had an immediate impact, with monthly poaching numbers dropping from 35 in April to fewer than 10 per month between May and September 2024,” the Minister said.
However, from October, the poaching syndicates adapted their tactics and began targeting dehorned rhinos, leading to a sudden spike in poaching incidents in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.
In that month alone, the province lost 27 rhinos.
“Fortunately, the provincial anti-rhino poaching team responded swiftly, intercepting the new syndicate and preventing further losses. The considerable efforts resulted in the province ultimately achieving a 67% decline in rhino poaching over the eight months.
“Kruger National Park reported a total of 88 poached rhinos for 2024. This is 10 animals more than the 78 that were reported for Kruger National Park (KNP) during the same period in 2023.
“Up until the end of November 2024, rhino losses reported in the Kruger National Park stood at 67, but a significant escalation in rhino poaching activities was experienced during December 2024 and this has continued into January 2025,” George said.
A total of 21 rhinos were reported poached in KNP during December 2024 and a further 17 were reported poached during January 2025.
The Mister said the escalation in rhino poaching in the Kruger National Park is of great concern.
Both the South African National Parks (SANParks) and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife continue to implement a number of actions and initiatives to counter the threats in the hotspot areas.
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife is focused on implementing their Rhino Guardianship Strategy, which also played a role in reducing poaching in the province. This strategy was initiated in August 2024.
“The Ezemvelo Integrity Implementation Plan was completed and approved for implementation; integrity assessments of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park staff, by an independent service provider, commenced, and a Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Integrity Management Plan was completed and approved for implementation. Polygraphing of 55 Ezemvelo rhino reserve managers was completed and polygraphing of 58 field staff was completed.
“We continue to see some very good convictions in relation to rhino related cases, with lengthy direct imprisonment terms in respect of cases related to rhino poaching, assisting in the poaching of rhino and trafficking of rhino horns.
“However, the time that it takes to finalise many of these cases does remain a concern and unfortunately where the suspects are released on bail, the data tell us that a large number of them continue to commit crimes (often relating to rhino poaching and / or horn trafficking).
"Accordingly, expediting these cases through courts, as well as vigorously opposing bail will result in safeguarding more rhinos," the Minister explained.
National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking
“The sentencing of Francis Kipampa in January this year (who was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment, eight of which were suspended for five years), as one of the accused investigated in Project Blood Orange, sends out a strong message. Not only are we focusing on arresting those involved in poaching our rhino and trafficking the horn, but we are disrupting the higher up levels in the value chain.
“This project is an excellent example of the integrated and multi-disciplinary approach to investigating organised crime linked to wildlife and ensuring that we target corruption, money laundering and the financial crimes associated with these activities,” he said.
The Minister said more of these focused investigations are needed, as government continues to implement the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking.
“As we move into the second year of implementation of this strategy, our partnerships within government, with authorities in transit and destination countries as well as with the private sector and non-governmental organisations remain critical.
“We need to continue to integrate and focus our effort through our existing programmes and forums, including the Integrated Wildlife Zones Initiative, the work of the South African Anti-Money Laundering Integrated Taskforce Illegal Wildlife Trade Task Force and the various task teams residing under the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure Priority Committee on Wildlife Trafficking.
“We remain committed to the fight against rhino poaching and I believe that a renewed strengthening of our agreements and operational protocols with key countries should be our focus for 2025,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 03/06/2025 - 13:44
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Defence force is violating the law
The city has better preventative measures but is far less resourced than Los Angeles
Sanddrift residents struggle to get medication, ambulances, and jobs
Kruger National Park Road maintenance project makes good progress
The South African National Parks (SANParks) has noted the significant progress made by the Kruger National Park (KNP) in repairing and maintaining its roads.
In its 100 days road maintenance report, KNP has outlined the work done thus far.
“It details progress in the blading of gravel roads in KNP as part of the overall ongoing infrastructure and maintenance programme. This intervention also sought to ensure preparedness for the 2024 festive season so as to enhance customer experience as tourists are expected to visit in numbers during this period.
“Most roads in the south of Olifants River (Marula Region of the park) were bladed between July and October 2024 and are constantly being monitored to ensure they remain in good condition,” SANParks said on Friday.
READ | SANParks ready to receive visitors for 2024 Festive Season
The repairs and maintenance included roads leading to many of the bush camps in the south of the national park.
Repairs are ongoing with focus now directed at the northern side of the Olifants River (Nxanatseni Region of KNP) where considerable progress has been made.
Road repairs are prioritised based on the extent of usage by park visitors. Therefore, roads which are mostly utilised are given priority attention. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 11/11/2024 - 11:39
The Richtersveld Desert Botanical Garden is a lifeline for plants species endemic to the region
100 days in office: Advancing the strategic priorities of the GNU
By Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts
The first 100 days as Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, under the Government of National Unity (GNU), have been a period of significant learning and action.
It has allowed me to engage closely with stakeholders in the sector, developing a blueprint to drive the implementation of the GNU's strategic priorities which are to fostering inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and addressing the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.
The experience has been invaluable, providing me with a deeper understanding of the department’s mandate, core operations, and both domestic and international context.
Alongside Minister Dr Dion George and fellow Deputy Minister Narend Singh, we recently briefed the media on our progress in the department during this period.
A key highlight of these 100 days has been the opportunity to engage with staff and various stakeholders, including the forestry sector, traditional leaders, firefighting personnel, community forest owners, young beneficiaries of departmental programs, field rangers from entities such as South African National Parks (SANParks), and industry players like the South African Weather Service (SAWS). These engagements have helped shape a shared vision for the department's future.
We kicked off our 100 days in the office by presenting the department's Budget Vote to Parliament on July 15, 2024. We delivered our department’s budget vote in a month where we celebrated our national unifying figure in the form of uTata Madiba – which seemed to tie in well with our mandate of unifying our people through the Government of National Unity.
In the first 100 days, we have initiated efforts to reengineer and repackage the department’s approach to wildland fire management. This involves building firefighting skills, especially in vulnerable rural communities, with a focus on women and youth. We aim to strengthen stakeholder engagement across both state and non-state actors to better deliver on our critical priorities.
As part of this initiative, I hosted stakeholder engagements with on the National Veld and Forest Fires Act, 1998 (Act No. 101 of 1998). These engagements were hosted with various stakeholders within the wildland fire management sector from both the North West and Free State. Some of the stakeholders who attended these engagements included local and provincial government departments, fire protection associations (FPAs) and other key players in the sector.
Through these stakeholder engagements, I have instructed the officials to address challenges raised in these interactive engagements such as payment delays for FPAs, challenges on the use of government firefighting vehicles, training of FPA members as well as the clarification of the roles of different stakeholders. I am satisfied with the honest discussions and note the commitment of all parties to find practical solutions.
I have recently led the 2024 Forestry Summit at the Freedom Park in Pretoria. The Summit brought all stakeholders within the forestry sector under one roof to discuss pertinent issues within the sector such as the growth and transformation of the sector, forestry sustainability and the contribution of the sector in addressing climate change.
The Summit was interactive as it provided role players with an opportunity to freely engage with us on the challenges they face in the sector. What was even more fascinating was the involvement of traditional leaders who came from various parts of the country to raise issues their communities were facing. I am pleased with the decision that came out of this frank engagement, which includes plans to go to communities to address issues they have raised.
In the month of September, I had the privilege to lead both the launch and closing ceremonies of the 2024 National Arbor Month campaign. The launch was hosted at Freedom Park in Pretoria and the closing ceremony at Fort Cox Agriculture and Forestry Training Institute in Middledrift, Eastern Cape. A total of 6000 trees were planted in both the localities that hosted these ceremonies.
The Arbor Month campaign is aimed at raising awareness among South Africans about the importance of conserving, protecting, and planting trees for the benefit of both the environment and society.
As part of the Arbor Month launch, I planted the first tree to officially initiate the Forest of Freedom at the designated site at Freedom Park in honour of the heroes and heroines who contributed to South Africa's democracy and liberation struggle. The first 30 trees planted at the Forest of Freedom marks the 30 years of Freedom and Democracy in South Africa. World leaders and other luminaries visiting Freedom Park will get an opportunity to plant a tree in the Forest of Freedom, when it is ready.
During the Arbor Month, I also took a deliberate decision to heighten the Presidential Ten Million Tree Programme, which is a clarion call by President Cyril Ramaphosa to all sectors of society led by DFFE. As the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, I am currently driving an ambitious campaign to relaunch the Presidential Ten Million Tree Programme by planting 1 million trees in one day, on a day to be announced soon.
I want to call on all South Africans – the three spheres of Government, forestry sector, private sector, labour, academia, civil society and many others to join this ambitious campaign by pledging and committing to providing and planting trees on that specific day and going forward.
Trees are important for life. I call on all South Africans to plant trees today and build a better future for generations to come!
On July 31, we celebrated World Ranger Day at Kruger National Park, honoring the dedication of rangers who protect our natural heritage. Their commitment inspires our ongoing conservation efforts.
I also participated in the National Consultative Workshop on Early Warnings for All (EW4ALL), a UN initiative aimed at protecting people from hazardous weather events by 2027. We are committed to developing systems that not only safeguard the economy and infrastructure but also protect the lives and well-being of our people.
The first 100 days have been marked by hard work and significant strides towards delivering the priorities of the GNU.
I look forward to continuing our work, confident that together we will achieve our shared goals for a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable South Africa.
*Bernice Swarts is the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Janine
Thu, 10/31/2024 - 10:24
Two properties have been added to join the centre and south of the park to form the Kommetjie-Noordhoek wetlands land chain
State vet warns that livestock wandering into the park pose significant disease threat
Minister congratulates 33 field ranger graduates
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the 33 newly-graduated field rangers of the Kruger National Park (KNP).
The graduates completed a rigorous training regimen and were inaugurated as field rangers at a ceremony in Skukuza, earlier this month.
The Minister commended the dedication and resilience of the new recruits.
"I am proud of the commitment and determination each of these individuals has shown throughout their intense six-week training programme. These new field rangers will provide critical support to our conservation efforts, safeguarding one of South Africa's most treasured natural heritages and playing a vital role in preserving our biodiversity for future generations," the Minister said on Tuesday.
The rigorous pre-selection and selection process, which took place in July 2024, demanded both physical endurance and mental fortitude from the trainees.
The graduates will now join the ranger corps across various sections of the KNP, contributing to law enforcement and biodiversity conservation efforts in the park.
"Our field rangers are at the frontline of the fight against poaching and environmental crime. Their work ensures the integrity of our protected areas, and I trust that their contributions will strengthen our collective efforts to protect South Africa’s wildlife," George said.
The Minister also extended his gratitude to South African National Parks (SANParks) for their continued leadership in conservation and their commitment to maintaining the highest standards in ranger training. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 09/17/2024 - 10:08
Collaboration key to addressing illegal snaring of wildlife
Collaboration and partnerships are key in addressing the negative impacts from the illegal snaring of wildlife.
This was among the takeaways from the inaugural two-day national Snare Mitigation Symposium in Pretoria, which was attended by leading experts in wildlife crime, government officials and representatives of numerous stakeholders across the sector to examine the multi-faceted aspects of the snaring crisis.
The meeting of 140 delegates delved into the impacts, drivers and solutions to this increasing threat to wildlife and the economy.
This is according to a joint statement issued on Monday by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), the Cape Leopard Trust (CLT), the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and South African National Parks (SANParks).
The statements said snaring is motivated by complex socio-economic and cultural drivers.
The symposium explored snaring from a myriad of angles and viewpoints.
“Information gained through the symposium highlighted that animals are snared largely for personal or commercial use and is occurring at unsustainable rates across all provinces and in diverse landscapes.
“Sadly, many species including leopard, lion, hyena and other predators are killed as by-catch in snares originally set for bushmeat,” said the statement.
A key takeaway from the symposium is that there is a need for less ‘fortress’ mentality and more community and sustainable use interaction among stakeholders towards achieving positive outcomes for this threat to wildlife.
“Communities living with wildlife, and those linked to snaring, need to form an integral part of the solutions being proposed, and to be undertaken, to address snaring.
“No solution will be credible without the involvement of the relevant community voices in co-development of solutions. Solutions need to be diverse, purposely inclusive and tailored to, and by, the people living in the affected areas. Technological advances were showcased at the symposium to improve snare detection and data collection,” the statement said on Monday.
Among the key decisions adopted as outcomes of the symposium included further research on the drivers and alternative livelihood solutions, more cohesive legislation to address snaring and other wildlife crimes, more centralised reporting and monitoring to ascertain the extent of the problem and creating a greater understanding of the impact of snaring not only on biodiversity, but also on the economy and well-being of communities.
“Looking to the future, greater teamwork and communication between State, private sector and civil society will be cultivated to find sustainable long-term solutions for both people and wildlife,” the statement said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 09/16/2024 - 15:28
Unplanned power outages plague residents and small businesses near Cape Point
National Parks Week to get underway
Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister, Dr Dion George says the National Parks Week serves as a profound reminder of the shared heritage and awe-inspiring landscapes that define South Africa.
“We celebrate the deep and lasting connection between South Africans and the natural world that surrounds us. South African National Parks Week is about fostering that connection by inviting everyone to experience the wonders that these parks have to offer free of charge,” George said.
The Minister was speaking at the launch of National Parks Week at the Marakele National Park in Thabazimbi, Limpopo on Sunday. This year the National Parks Week will run from Monday, 09 September- 15 September.
On the dates of 13 to 15 September only selected parks will still provide free entry to South African day visitors.
“South Africa presides over a network of 21 national parks, each of which is managed by SANParks [South African National Parks] in six provinces,” George said.
The Minister added that the parks belongs to South Africans and that everyone should take collective responsibility to protect and preserve them for generations to come.
“Now in its 19th year, National Parks Week has become a powerful platform to showcase the invaluable natural and cultural treasures we hold. By offering free access, SANParks is extending an open hand to all South Africans in order to foster a deeper appreciation for the rich biodiversity and historical significance found within our parks.
“As we reflect on the importance of the National Parks Week and our shared responsibility, it is equally important to look ahead. Our vision for South Africa’s national parks cannot be limited to conservation, it must extend to revitalisation and growth.
“By involving young people in conservation efforts, we create a virtuous cycle. As up-and-coming generations connect with nature, they develop a sense of ownership, which in turn drives them to protect these resources for themselves and future generations.
Career pathways
“More than that, the development of our parks will present a wealth of opportunities and potential career pathways,” he explained.
The Minister said that by learning about biodiversity, ecosystems and the tourism industry, young people will be able to leverage these natural assets into fulfilling careers in fields such as conservation, ecotourism and environmental management and protection.
Nation building
“Our national parks serve as a reminder of what we can achieve when we work together. By combining the efforts of local communities, business leaders and political representatives in the success of these parks, we strengthen the ties that bind us as a nation,” the Minister said.
A Thabazimbi resident, Prince Ngaoko told SAnews that he is happy with the SANParks initiative and that he is going to use the opportunity to teach his two kids about wild animals.
“Our children grow up without knowing the different types of animals, this is an opportunity to show them the animals,” Ngaoko said.
Echoing same sentiments was Nthati Serorisi from Belabela who said she is going to take her kids to Marakele National Park.
“It is important that our kids should know the different kinds of animals and that they should learn about preserving the country’s heritage,” Serorisi said.
Visiting national parks
The annual South African National Parks Week provides all South Africans with the opportunity of exploring their local national park at absolutely no cost.
The inaugural National Parks Week was held in 2006 and was aimed at linking the South African national parks system to the global national movement and to also showcase the best of South Africa’s national parks.
The week grants free access to most of the 21 national parks for day visitors, especially people from the local communities. It should be noted that free access to parks does not include free access to accommodation facilities and other tourist activities.
Some of the parks will be extending the week to include weekends. For individual park dates and participating parks please visit: https://www.sanparks.org/about/events/parks_week/default.php
National Parks Week has seen an influx of day visitors in all participating parks since its inception in 2006. SANParks also uses this time to cultivate a sense of pride in South Africa’s natural, cultural and historical heritage as protected and preserved by the national parks system.
SANParks Vision 2040
SANParks recently embarked on an ambitious project, the SANParks Vision 2040 which in part is about cultivating a collective sense of community, healing, and inspiration that resonates with all South Africans.
Vision 2040 is about looking to the future and reimaging the way we conservation is done.
SA National Parks Week has proved to be a successful campaign that provides education and awareness about South Africa’s inclusive approach to conservation.
Whilst offering an opportunity to experience South Africa’s rich natural and cultural heritage, attention is also drawn to the sustainable development practices made possible through partnerships with key role players like communities living adjacent to national parks, businesses, scientists and tourists.
Every year SANParks aims to increase the number of citizens that are granted free access to national parks.
Since the start of the programme, some 785 621 South Africans have been afforded the opportunity to enter national parks. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 09/08/2024 - 15:30
Condolences for Knysna fire victims
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has extended his condolences to the families of the three people who tragically lost their lives in a fire at the Garden Route National Park in Knysna.
The fire broke out at the Tree Top Chalet on 18 July 2024 where two South African National Parks (SANParks) staff and one non-SANParks person died.
Ranger Services was notified of smoke permeating near the forest and upon investigation found the chalet ablaze. Emergency services were dispatched from the Bitou Municipality Fire Department and the South African Police Service (SAPS) were called.
"Our hearts are heavy with sorrow following the devastating fire at Garden Route National Park that claimed three precious lives. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy. We are committed to providing all necessary support during this difficult time," the Minister said on Thursday.
During the process of managing and containing the fire, three bodies which were burnt beyond recognition, were discovered. An inquest has been opened with the police and the process of identifying the bodies through DNA testing is underway.
The names of the deceased will be disclosed once the identification process has been finalised.
“SANParks is in regular contact with the SAPS and in close liaison with and providing support to the families during this most difficult time. With the matter still under investigation, I appeal for space and respect to the family members,” George said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 12:29
Condolences for fire Knysna victims
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has extended his condolences to the families of the three people who tragically lost their lives in a fire at the Garden Route National Park in Knysna.
The fire broke out at the Tree Top Chalet on 18 July 2024 where two South African National Parks (SANParks) staff and one non-SANParks person died.
Ranger Services was notified of smoke permeating near the forest and upon investigation found the chalet ablaze. Emergency services were dispatched from the Bitou Municipality Fire Department and the South African Police Service (SAPS) were called.
"Our hearts are heavy with sorrow following the devastating fire at Garden Route National Park that claimed three precious lives. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy. We are committed to providing all necessary support during this difficult time," the Minister said on Thursday.
During the process of managing and containing the fire, three bodies which were burnt beyond recognition, were discovered. An inquest has been opened with the police and the process of identifying the bodies through DNA testing is underway.
The names of the deceased will be disclosed once the identification process has been finalised.
“SANParks is in regular contact with the SAPS and in close liaison with and providing support to the families during this most difficult time. With the matter still under investigation, I appeal for space and respect to the family members,” George said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 12:29